Orlando , Florida -LRB- CNN -RRB- -- An Orlando , Florida , airport official wants to join the small group of U.S. airports who use a private company to screen passengers instead of the Transportation Security Administration .

Larry Dale , president of the Sanford Airport Authority in Orlando , says the airport first considered the change in February and it was approved on Oct. 5 .

`` Airports are unique ... one size does n't fit all , '' Dale told CNN 's American Morning on Friday . Dale says his board and staff have been looking at other airports that provide their own security in preparation for making the switch at Orlando Sanford International Airport . Dale says his research shows that using a private security screening company would be `` more efficient and more enjoyable to the public . ''

Dale 's comments come during a week in which the TSA has been under fire for it 's airport screening procedures , including imaging technology and pat downs . TSA is in charge of protecting the nation 's transportation systems .

Private airport security is not uncommon . The TSA lists 16 airports that are currently participating in its Screening Partnership Program . They include San Francisco International Airport , Kansas City International Airport , Greater Rochester International Airport and Key West International Airport . Participating airports work with TSA to hire an approved security contractor and must follow TSA security guidelines when screening passengers and baggage , according to the TSA website .

`` All commercial airports are regulated by TSA whether the actual screening is performed by the TSA officers or private companies . The TSA sets the security standards that must be followed and includes the use of enhanced pat downs and imaging technology , if installed at the airport , '' said TSA spokesman Greg Soule .

Congressman John Mica , R-Florida , the ranking member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee , wrote a letter to the nation 's 100 busiest airports urging them to ditch the TSA for private security .

Watch American Morning weekdays 6am to 9am ET . For the latest from American Morning click here .

@highlight

16 airports use private security

@highlight

TSA must approve the company

@highlight

Florida Congressman John Mica urges others to go private